CLASSROOM assistant Sue Talbot earned top marks when she completed her first half-marathon in aid of a worthy cause

The 35-year-old, from Haydock, took part in the Great North Run to raise money for the Lupus Research Foundation in memory of school friend, Elaine Austin, who died of the crippling disease early last year, leaving two children, Daniel (7) and Rosie (4).

Mum-of-two Sue, who works at St Mary's RC Primary School, Blackbrook, ran the 13-mile event in two hours 25 minutes and raised more than £300 from sponsorship.

She told the Star: "The half-marathon was great fun, and a very enjoyable experience. Elaine and I had been friends since our school days and I was glad to raise money for such a worthy charity as the Lupus Research Foundation."